Laying it on the bed, I walk into the bathroom. It, too, is large, and old-fashioned with a clawfoot tub set in the middle of the room boasting copper fixtures. I plug the drain and turn on the water, adjust the temperature and let it fill up as I wind my hair on top of my head and check out the soaps, shampoos and bath oils. I choose one that smells of jasmine, drop a few droplets into the rapidly filling tub and stand back to watch as I undress. I then climb in, letting the splash of water tickle my toes as I look out the window onto the dark, starry night.

This is why I don’t mind the cold. The skies are clear then and out here, a million stars dot the midnight sky.

Midnight.

Like Sergio’s eyes.

I close mine, and take a deep breath in and slowly sink deeper into the tub as I switch off the water with my foot. The scent of jasmine steams upward and I let myself relax, listening to the drip of the last few drops from the tap.

This weekend is important to Sergio for his mother’s sake. I get the feeling this will be one of the last times they’ll all be together and that she’ll be healthy enough not to be confined to a bed.

I open my eyes and look up at the ceiling, follow the intricate pattern of the crown molding along the edges, around the light fixture. It’s a mini-chandelier. I have to smile, shaking my head, wondering just how much money the Benedetti family has. It’s a kind of wealth I don’t think I can grasp.

But then I think of how they earn that money.

That thought sobers me. Reminds me where I am. And with whom.

I shouldn’t get too comfortable. I can’t forget what the last few days have brought. What it means for me. What Sergio Benedetti loving me means. Because he’s right, I did walk into this—eyes wide open. And I’m not naïve enough to think Sergio’s hands are clean.

I push those thoughts away and pull the plug on the drain. Water pours off me as I stand, grab a thick towel off the stack nearby and wrap myself up. I walk to the mirror, glance at my reflection, wonder how I got here, wonder how much I’m willing to ignore to be here.

Wonder who I am.